Senior Director of Development & Engagement

CEL (Center for Enriched Living) is an independently funded nonprofit that empowers teens, adults, and seniors with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live fully and confidently. Through programs, services, and inclusive education initiatives, CEL equips people to form real friendships, develop essential life skills, and pursue opportunities in work, learning, and community life. Our universally designed building and deeply caring staff create a welcoming environment where people with disabilities are not an afterthought, they're the focus. Learn more at ExperienceCEL.org. As CEL continues to grow, we are seeking a strategic and relationship-driven leader to serve as our Senior Director of Development & Engagement. This role is a key member of the senior leadership team and is responsible for shaping and advancing the organization's philanthropic revenue and external engagement strategy. Why This Role Matters This is an opportunity to build and lead a fully integrated advancement function at a mission-driven organization with strong community roots and significant growth potential. The Senior Director of Development & Engagement will: Lead the development and execution of a scalable, multi-year fundraising strategy. Align fundraising, marketing, and partnerships into a cohesive external engagement approach. Partner directly with the CEO and Board of Directors to expand CEL's philanthropic reach. Build systems and infrastructure that support sustainable revenue growth beyond any single individual. Play a central role in shaping how CEL tells its story, engages its community, and funds its future. What you'll Lead Philanthropic Revenue Strategy Develop and execute CEL's annual and multi-year fundraising strategy across all revenue streams, including major gifts, annual giving, events, grants, and corporate partnerships. Establish and drive performance against clear revenue goals and growth targets. Identify and pursue new funding opportunities to support long-term organizational sustainability. Donor & Partner Engagement Manage and grow a portfolio of major donors and high-value prospects. Lead strategies for donor cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship. Build and strengthen relationships with corporate partners, foundations, and community stakeholders. Partner with the CEO and Board to support high-level donor engagement and fundraising efforts. Marketing, Communications, & Brand Oversee CEL's external communications and brand strategy. Ensure consistent, compelling storytelling that connects program impact to donor investment. Guide campaigns, digital presence, and content development to drive engagement and visibility. Strategic Partnerships Develop partnerships that expand CEL's reach, visibility, and resources. Identify opportunities for collaboration that enhance both program impact and organizational growth. Leadership & Team Development Lead and develop a high-performing team across development, marketing, and partnerships. Align team structure, goals, and performance with organizational priorities. Foster a collaborative, results-driven environment focused on growth and impact. Who You Are 7-10 years of progressive leadership experience in fundraising, development, or nonprofit management. Proven success developing and executing fundraising strategies and achieving revenue targets. Experience managing major donor relationships and multi-channel fundraising efforts. Strong relationship-building skills with the ability to engage donors, partners, and stakeholders. Experience working with executive leadership and or boards of directors. Strategic thinker with the ability to translate vision into actionable plans and measurable outcomes. Effective team leader with experience building and developing high-performing staff. Bachelor's Degree required; advanced degree preferred.

Compensation & Benefits Salary Range:

$125,000 - $145,000 Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and retirement plan. Generous paid time off and holiday schedule. Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.

Pay:

$125,000.00 - $145,000.00 per year

Benefits:

403(b) 403(b) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Riverwoods, IL 60015